Job Title: Production Planner
Location: John Shearer (JS) Manufacturing Facility
Reports To: TBC

About John Shearer (JS):

John Shearer (JS) is a leading manufacturer of agricultural equipment, known for delivering high-quality products on time and in full. As we continue our growth journey, we are seeking a motivated Production Planner to support production planning efforts and efficiency across welding, painting, and assembly.

Role Overview:

We are in the process of rebuilding our production environment, creating numerous opportunities for improvement and innovation.

As a Production Planner, you will be responsible for ensuring production runs smoothly, safely, and efficiently to meet Delivery in Full and On Time (DIFOT) targets. You will possess excellent planning and communication skills, enabling you to organize workflow, optimize processes, and contribute to our company’s sales growth. A strong understanding of Toyota Production System (TPS) and Lean Thinking is essential to drive continuous improvement.

Key Responsibilities:

Collaboration: Work closely with the Materials Co-ordinator and manufacturing manager to ensure accurate planning and availability of materials for production.

Production Planning: establish production scheduling plans and coordination to ensure resources are effectively allocated and DIFOT targets are consistently met.

Workflow Organization: Plan and coordinate work schedules, materials, and manpower to maintain a smooth and efficient production flow.

Lean Manufacturing: Apply TPS/Lean principles to enhance productivity, minimize waste, and improve overall operational efficiency.

Safety & Compliance: Ensure a safe working environment by enforcing company safety policies, conducting risk assessments, and ensuring adherence to workplace safety regulations.

New Product Introduction (NPI): Assist in the seamless introduction of new products into the manufacturing process.

Analysis production efficiencies using work standard data.

Continuous Improvement: Identify opportunities for operational enhancements, implement best practices, and support a culture of innovation and efficiency. Ensure that process improvements are effectively implemented and sustained over time. Track performance using Standard Costing plans to measure efficiency and cost-effectiveness.

Qualifications & Skills:

Experience with and practical use of Material Requirements Planning (MRP) systems for effective scheduling, inventory control, and production planning.

Previous experience in a production environment with a strong focus on planning and coordination within a manufacturing setting.

Knowledge of Toyota Production System (TPS) / Lean Manufacturing principles preferred.

Proven ability to plan, organize, and manage production workflow to meet delivery targets.

Excellent communication and interpersonal skills to effectively coordinate across departments and support seamless production planning.

A proactive, problem-solving mindset with a passion for continuous improvement.

Understanding of safety regulations and best practices in a manufacturing environment.

Why Join JS?

Be part of a growing and reputable company that values efficiency and quality.

Play a key role in shaping and improving planning processes in a dynamic and fast-paced manufacturing environment.

Work alongside a team that is passionate about innovation and operational excellence. As the business expands, there will be opportunities for increased responsibility and career growth within the company.